Unite Students retains Gold in the Global Student Living Index for the third consecutive time

By Paul Watson, Group Operations Director

Unite Students has once again achieved Gold in the Global Student Living Index (GSLI), following the spring 2026 survey – retaining the accreditation for the third consecutive time.

The Index is one of the most comprehensive benchmarks of the student living experience, based entirely on student feedback.

This spring, more than 10,000 students living in Unite Students accommodation took part in the month‑long survey, delivering a strong 18% response rate – up 2% on last spring.

Consistently strong results, rooted in student feedback

Our overall index score of 73 means we continue to meet the Gold benchmark, alongside achieving a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 20, in line with our target.

Encouragingly, 66 properties improved their scores compared with spring 2025, demonstrating progress at a local level and our commitment to continuous improvement.

Regionally, the South West was the most improved area year‑on‑year, with a ten‑point increase in NPS – showing how targeted operational focus can translate into meaningful gains for students.

Key strengths aligned with what matters most to students

The spring results highlight several areas of consistent strength that closely reflect what students tell us matters most in their day‑to‑day experience:

• Internet remains our strongest-performing metric, scoring 81 and retaining Platinum status for the third year running.

• Overall Management scored 78, just two points below Platinum, and has improved by six points over the past two years – signalling steady, sustained progress.

• Environmental Impact reached 69, only one point below Platinum and up five points since last spring, reflecting the positive impact of initiatives introduced last summer, such as Simpler Recycling and Reuse Stations across our properties.   

What this means for our university partners

These results provide further assurance that we continue to deliver safe, well‑managed and sustainable living environments that support student wellbeing and success.

With consistently high performance recorded over the last few years, the spring GSLI outcome demonstrates how student voice directly informs our investment in innovation, services and student experience in our accommodation.

Insights from the GSLI remain a vital part of how we listen, learn and improve – together.